The survey, conducted in Johannesburg, Cape Town and Durban also found:

39% of all respondents were either showing signs of early hair loss (22%), had a serious hair loss problem (9%) or were almost bald (8%).
Most men (59%) spend R100 or less a month on their hair; 37% spend up to R499 and 4% spend over R500.
Almost half (45%) of the men surveyed are willing to spend an additional R150 a month to prevent hair loss, while 9 % are willing to spend more than R150.
Single, divorced and separated men are willing to spend more than married men on countering hair loss.
Cape Town-based men spend more than their Durban and Johannesburg counterparts do on their hair.
Almost 40% of respondents showing signs of hair loss are treating the problem.

Commenting on the results, Dr Colinda Linde, clinical psychologist and chairperson of the board of the SA Depression and Anxiety Group, said hair has historically been regarded as a sign of youth, health and vitality.

“If a full head of hair is so closely associated with these attributes, it is clear why significant hair loss is so devastating in men. Studies have shown that men who have significant hair loss – especially prematurely – experience greater difficulty interacting with the opposite sex.

“In our appearance-obsessed society, there is pressure to look youthful and hair, along with other physical attributes, is seen as a significant part of one’s identity and status in society.”

German scientist, Dr Adolf Klenk, head of research at cosmeceutical manufacturer, Dr Kurt Wolff, discovered the positive effects of caffeine on hair roots and developed a phyto-caffeine complex shampoo, Alpecin, which has become a best seller in Germany. He said early hair loss in men was largely hereditary and could be stemmed through regular use of the shampoo.

“Research has proven that caffeine protects hair roots by extending the growth phases to their normal length, thereby facilitating hair growth well into old age,” he said.